Materials Science and Engineering

Discover the underlying principles of materials science and how these are applied across materials engineering situations. Keep your course general or tailor your degree with optional materials modules. You'll interact directly with industry through an industrial placement and industrial focussed projects, and in the final year undertake a research project embedded in one of our leading research groups.

Discover the principles and application of materials science and engineering, research and industrial practice.

The Materials Science and Engineering MEng at Sheffield offers a unique balance of research and practical industrial experience, preparing you for diverse careers in both research and industry.

From day one, you’ll focus on real-world applications. In your first two years, you’ll build a strong theoretical foundation while gaining hands-on practical skills essential for materials engineers.

Project work will challenge you to solve real engineering problems, while developing key skills such as project management, communication, and technical problem-solving - qualities highly valued by employers.

Sustainability is a core theme integrated throughout the course. You’ll learn how materials science supports a greener future by reducing resource dependency, advancing energy efficient processes, and enabling renewable technologies. Modules like the Materials Lifecycle, energy materials, and nuclear technologies will allow you to explore cutting-edge solutions aligned with global sustainability goals.

Your industrial placement will provide you with an opportunity to connect with external industrial partners, offering invaluable experience in applying professional practices and research principles to solve industry challenges. You’ll collaborate in teams to deliver effective solutions, demonstrating your expertise in real-world settings.

In your final year, you’ll undertake an independent research project of your choice embedded in one of our leading research groups. This is your opportunity to showcase technical lab skills, deepen your knowledge, and contribute innovative ideas to the field of materials science.

Taught by world-leading researchers and supported by cutting-edge facilities, this course equips you with practical skills and knowledge highly sought after across a wide range of industries, preparing you to tackle the engineering challenges of the 21st century.

This course is fully accredited by the IOM3, meaning it counts towards later professional registration as an Incorporated Engineer (IEng) or Chartered Engineer (CEng).

Why study this course?

• Professional development for your engineering career: You'll work in partnership with leading professional bodies such as the Institute of Materials, Minerals and Mining (IOM3), to develop a portfolio to support your journey towards Chartered Engineer status. You'll also develop key professional skills and receive expert career guidance.

• Artefacts and Individual final year projects: Bridging theory and practice, your artefacts project empowers you to explore the use of different materials in commercial products. All students will carry out an open-ended individual final year project where you can explore research level material.

• Links with industry and practical training: Working in teams, you'll explore the problems faced by different industrial sectors. You'll work directly with industry in two group projects and help solve real industry challenges. Our Industrial Advisory Board provides a link between your studies and the professional world, ensuring we teach you the skills in demand from industry.

• Specialist teaching facilities: 'Learning by doing' is the reason The Diamond was built. Dedicated to engineering, you’ll apply the theory you learn in lectures and during lab classes – consolidating your understanding alongside students from other disciplines, and beyond the bounds of the curriculum.